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We ask AI about Digital Archaeology - Ep 206
739 Plays1 year ago
Artificial Intelligence programs like ChatGPT and Google’s “Bard” seem to be the hot topic of conversation these days. They’re being used to write papers, finish reports, and reply to emails, among other thing. But, what do they really know? Chris asks ChatGPT and Bard what they know about topics related to digital archaeology on today’s episode.
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Twitter: @archeowebby
Email: [email protected] - Paul Zimmerman
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Transcript
Introduction and Episode Overview
00:00:00
Speaker
You're listening to the Archaeology Podcast Network. Hello and welcome to the Archaeotech Podcast, Episode 206. I'm your host, Chris Webster. Paul's out of the country still. Today I've got an interesting interview with a few different people about the future of archaeology. Let's get to it.
AI Voices in Archaeology: A New Era?
00:00:24
Speaker
Hey everybody, for today's episode, I've got a little bit of a different one. I actually invited on a few different AIs, two actually, and there's a few different voices that I use, but Paul and I were talking, and actually I was talking to somebody else about
00:00:40
Speaker
You know, having a conversation with chat GPT. So I did that, but then I switched it up near the end of the show. I asked it some, I don't know, I think important questions about digital archeology just to see what it had to say. And then I ran that through some AI voice filters, which you can see all the links for the things that I used down in the show notes. But here it goes.
Digital Archaeology: Tools and Techniques
00:00:58
Speaker
Welcome to the show, Amelia from chat GPT. Here's my first question. What is digital archeology?
00:01:07
Speaker
Digital archaeology, also known as cyberarchaeology or computational archaeology, is a subfield of archaeology that focuses on the application of digital technologies to archaeological research and practice. It involves the use of various digital tools and techniques to study, analyze, and interpret archaeological data. Digital archaeology encompasses a wide range of activities, including data collection, data processing, data visualization, and data analysis.
00:01:37
Speaker
It involves the use of technologies such as geographic information systems, GIS, remote sensing, 3D modelling, virtual reality, image processing, and data mining, among others. These technologies enable archaeologists to document, preserve, and analyse archaeological sites and artefacts in new and innovative way. One of the key aspects of digital archaeology is the use of digital tools for data capture and documentation.
00:02:06
Speaker
For example, archaeologists may use advanced surveying techniques, such as LIDAR, light detection and ranging, to create highly detailed 3D models of archaeological sites.
00:02:18
Speaker
This allows for a more accurate understanding of the site's topography and can reveal hidden features or structures that are not visible on the surface. Digital archaeology also involves the development and application of computer algorithms and analytical methods to process and analyze large volumes of archaeological data.
00:02:36
Speaker
This can include the use of machine learning algorithms to classify and categorize artifacts, or statistical techniques to identify patterns or relationships within archaeological datasets. Overall, digital archaeology aims to leverage the power of digital technologies to enhance archaeological research, improve data management and analysis, and facilitate the dissemination of archaeological knowledge to wider audiences.
00:03:02
Speaker
It offers new opportunities for collaboration, visualization and interpretation, ultimately advancing our understanding of the past.
Machine Learning's Role in Archaeology
00:03:11
Speaker
Is machine learning being used to classify and categorize artifacts?
00:03:17
Speaker
Machine learning techniques are increasingly being employed in archaeology to classify and categorize artifacts based on their characteristics. Here's an overview of how machine learning is used in this context. 1. Data collection and preprocessing. Archaeologists collect data by recording various attributes of artifacts, such as shape, size, material, decoration, and contextual information.
00:03:43
Speaker
This data is then preprocessed to ensure it is in a suitable format for machine learning algorithms. Preprocessing may involve data cleaning, normalization, and feature extraction. 2. Training dataset creation. A labeled dataset is created where artifacts are manually classified and categorized by experts.
00:04:04
Speaker
Each artifact is assigned a class or category label based on specific criteria. Three, feature selection and extraction, relevant features that can differentiate between artifact classes are selected. These features can be derived from the recorded attributes, such as texture, color, or shape descriptors.
00:04:25
Speaker
Feature extraction techniques may involve methods like principal component analysis, PCA, or histogram of oriented gradients, HOG. For model training, machine learning algorithms are trained on the labeled dataset, using the selected features.
00:04:42
Speaker
Commonly used algorithms for artifact classification include decision trees, random forests, support vector machines, SVM, and neural networks. 5. A model evaluation and refinement. The trained model is evaluated using performance metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, or F1 score.
00:05:03
Speaker
If the model's performance is not satisfactory, adjustments may be made, such as fine-tuning hyperparameters or modifying the feature selection process.
00:05:13
Speaker
6. Artifact Classification Once the model is trained and evaluated, it can be used to classify new, unlabeled artifacts. The model applies the learned patterns and features to make predictions about the class or category of the artifacts. Machine learning can significantly speed up the artifact classification process, especially when dealing with large archaeological assemblages.
00:05:37
Speaker
It can help archaeologists in tasks such as identifying pottery types, categorizing lithic tools, or distinguishing between different styles of ceramics. However, it's important to note that machine learning models in archaeology are not meant to replace human expertise and interpretation.
00:05:55
Speaker
They serve as tools to support and enhance archaeological analysis, providing suggestions, and assisting in the initial sorting and organization of artifacts, which can then be further validated and refined by human experts. Will machine learning ever get to sufficient quality where human experts are no longer needed?
Human Interpretation and Ethics in AI Archaeology
00:06:16
Speaker
While machine learning has made significant advancements in recent years, it is unlikely that it will completely replace the need for human experts in archaeology or any other field. Here are a few reasons why human expertise remains essential. 1. Complex contextual understanding Archaeological interpretation involves more than just identifying and classifying artefacts. It requires a deep understanding of cultural, historical, and environmental contexts.
00:06:46
Speaker
Human experts bring their knowledge and experience to the interpretation process, considering factors that may not be captured or understood by machine learning algorithms alone. 2. Subjectivity and nuance. Archaeological interpretation often involves subjective judgments and nuanced understanding. Certain aspects of artifacts or archaeological contexts may be open to different interpretations or require expert judgment.
00:07:12
Speaker
Human experts can bring their expertise, creativity, and critical thinking to address such complexities, which may be challenging for machine learning algorithms. 3. Adapting to new contexts and challenges, machine learning algorithms are trained on specific datasets and patterns. When faced with new or unexpected archaeological contexts or artefact types, the algorithms may struggle to generalise or adapt.
00:07:39
Speaker
Human experts, on the other hand, can draw from their broader knowledge and apply it to novel situations. For ethical considerations and value judgments, archaeology involves ethical considerations and value judgments, such as decisions about site preservation, community engagement, and the representation of the past. These are complex issues that require human input and decision-making, taking into account diverse perspectives and ethical frameworks.
00:08:08
Speaker
While machine learning can greatly assist archaeologists in tasks like data analysis, pattern recognition, and artifact classification, it is best seen as a tool to augment human expertise rather than replace it. Human experts and machine learning algorithms can work in tandem, with the algorithms helping to process large datasets and identify patterns, while human experts provide critical analysis, interpretation, and contextual understanding.
Challenges in Modern Archaeology
00:08:36
Speaker
The collaboration between humans and machines can lead to more comprehensive and nuanced archaeological research outcomes.
00:08:49
Speaker
As an AI language model, I don't have personal preferences or desires like a human does. However, I can share some interesting areas of archaeological research that many archaeologists find compelling. 1. Ancient Civilizations Studying the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, such as the Maya, ancient Egypt, Rome, or Mesopotamia, offers insights into the development of complex societies, political systems, architecture.
00:09:18
Speaker
art, and cultural practices. 2. Prehistoric cultures Exploring prehistoric cultures allows archaeologists to uncover the lifestyles, technologies, and belief systems of early human societies. This includes investigating hunter-gatherer communities, early agricultural societies, and the origins of human civilization.
00:09:40
Speaker
3. Underwater archaeology. Investigating submerged archaeological sites, such as ancient shipwrecks or lost coastal settlements, provides unique opportunities to understand maritime history, seafaring, trade routes, and the impact of environmental changes on human communities.
00:09:59
Speaker
4. Bioarchaeology This field focuses on the analysis of human remains to understand ancient populations' health, diet, migration patterns, and social structures. Bioarchaeologists also explore aspects like ancient diseases,
00:10:14
Speaker
trauma, and cultural practices related to death and burial. 5. Experimental Archaeology Conducting experiments to replicate ancient technologies, craft processes, or construction methods helps archaeologists gain practical insights into the skills and knowledge of past societies.
00:10:34
Speaker
This can involve recreating ancient tools, pottery-making techniques, or architectural experiments. 6. Landscape archaeology. Investigating the interaction between humans and their environment over time, landscape archaeology explores how past societies shaped and were shaped by the landscapes they inhabited.
00:10:53
Speaker
It involves studying settlement patterns, land use, and the impact of human activities on ecosystems. 7. Cultural Heritage Preservation Archaeologists also engage in the preservation and conservation of cultural heritage sites and artifacts. This includes developing strategies for site management, implementing sustainable practices, and working with local communities to ensure the preservation of their heritage.
00:11:21
Speaker
These are just a few examples of the diverse areas of archaeological research that exist. The field of archaeology is vast and offers numerous fascinating avenues to explore and uncover the mysteries of our past. What's the biggest problem we face in archaeological research today?
00:11:40
Speaker
There are several significant challenges that archaeologists face in their research today. While it's difficult to pinpoint a single biggest problem, the following are some common challenges. 1. Preservation and destruction of archaeological sites. Many archaeological sites are at risk of destruction due to urban development, looting, climate change, or armed conflicts.
00:12:03
Speaker
The loss of these sites leads to irreparable damage to our cultural heritage and limits our ability to study and understand the past. 2. Funding and resources. Archaeological research requires adequate funding and resources to conduct fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and publication. Limited financial support can impede the progress of research and limit the scope of excavations and analyses.
00:12:29
Speaker
Three, ethical considerations and community engagement. Archaeologists face ethical challenges in their research, particularly when it comes to engaging with local communities, indigenous peoples, and descendant communities. Involving these stakeholders in the research process and addressing their concerns and interests is crucial for ethical and responsible archaeological practice.
00:12:52
Speaker
4. Data management and accessibility. Archaeology generates vast amounts of data, including excavation records, survey data, images, and digital documentation. Effective data management, storage, and accessibility pose challenges, especially when it comes to integrating diverse datasets and making them widely available for future research.
00:13:15
Speaker
5. Interdisciplinary collaboration Addressing complex research questions often requires interdisciplinary collaboration with experts from various fields, such as geology, biology, chemistry, or computer science. Establishing effective interdisciplinary collaborations can be challenging due to differences in methodologies, terminology, and research priorities.
00:13:38
Speaker
6. Technology and Digital Literacy The rapid advancement of digital technologies offers new possibilities for archaeological research. However, the adoption and integration of these technologies require archaeologists to develop digital literacy skills and stay updated with technological advancements.
00:13:57
Speaker
7. Reproducibility and transparency, ensuring the reproducibility and transparency of archaeological research is essential for the credibility and advancement of the field. Challenges lie in openly sharing data, methodologies, and research outcomes to facilitate peer review, replication, and knowledge exchange.
00:14:18
Speaker
These challenges require continuous efforts and collaborations within the archaeological community, as well as engagement with stakeholders outside the discipline. Overcoming these obstacles can help archaeologists address research gaps, protect cultural heritage, and advance our understanding of the past.
00:14:36
Speaker
Let's take a break and see what Ava from Chat GPT has to say. In the meantime, check out the link in the show notes for all of our affiliate programs. It really helps us get the network off the ground and keep things going. If you're watching the video, head over to arcpodnet.com forward slash members and you can become a member. You can do that however you're listening and we really appreciate it. Back in a minute.
Embracing Digital Tools in Archaeology
00:14:56
Speaker
All right, let's welcome Eva from chat GPT. I'm giving them names because they do, but actually chat GPT doesn't, the voice recognition thing I did, I found gives them voices. So anyway, welcome Eva. Here's a question for you. What is the one technology most used in archaeological field work today?
00:15:19
Speaker
One of the most widely used technologies in archaeological fieldwork today is Geographic Information Systems, GIS. GIS technology allows archaeologists to capture, store, analyze, and visualize spatial data related to archaeological sites, landscapes, and features. It combines geographical information with attribute data, enabling researchers to examine patterns, relationships, and distributions within a spatial context.
00:15:48
Speaker
Here's how GIS is used in archaeological fieldwork, survey and mapping, remote sensing and aerial survey, site documentation and data management, spatial analysis, landscape modeling and visualization, and predictive modeling and site selection. GIS technology has revolutionized archaeological fieldwork by providing powerful tools for data management, analysis, and visualization in a spatial context.
00:16:15
Speaker
Its application has enhanced the efficiency, accuracy, and interpretation of archaeological research, facilitating a better understanding of the relationships between people, artifacts, and landscapes across time. Ava, what are a few things that archaeological field technicians can do to stay relevant in a world where artificial intelligence exists?
00:16:37
Speaker
To stay relevant in a world with artificial intelligence, AI, archaeological field technicians can focus on developing skills and adopting practices that complement and leverage AI technologies. Here are a couple of things they can do. One, embrace digital tools and data management, familiarize yourself with digital tools, software, and data management practices relevant to archaeology.
00:17:01
Speaker
This includes learning how to effectively capture, organize, and analyze digital data, such as using geographic information systems, GIS, data visualization software, or archaeological recording software. Proficiency in digital tools and data management will enhance your ability to work with AI technologies and contribute to data-driven archaeological research.
00:17:25
Speaker
2. Specialize in areas that complement AI Consider specializing in areas that complement AI technologies rather than directly competing with them.
00:17:35
Speaker
For example, developing expertise in field survey techniques, stratigraphic analysis, or material culture analysis can provide valuable context and insights that support and inform the use of AI algorithms in archaeological research. Understanding the strengths and limitations of AI technologies will allow you to effectively collaborate with AI systems and make informed decisions about when and how to utilize them.
00:18:00
Speaker
3. Foster interdisciplinary collaborations. AI applications in archaeology often require interdisciplinary collaborations. Seek opportunities to collaborate with experts in computer science, data science, or machine learning. By working together,
00:18:17
Speaker
You can combine archaeological expertise with AI knowledge to address complex research questions and develop innovative approaches to data analysis, artifact classification, or predictive modeling. 4. Stay informed and adaptable. Keep yourself updated on the latest developments in AI and its applications in archaeology.
00:18:37
Speaker
Stay informed through academic journals, conferences, workshops, and online resources. Develop an understanding of the potential impacts, challenges, and ethical considerations associated with AI technologies in archaeological research.
00:18:53
Speaker
Cultivate a mindset of adaptability and be open to exploring new methodologies, technologies, and approaches that AI can offer. 5. Enhance non-automatable skills. Recognize that there are skills and qualities that AI cannot easily replicate, such as critical thinking, contextual understanding, creativity, and ethical decision-making.
Drones in Archaeological Mapping
00:19:15
Speaker
Cultivate these skills and focus on areas that require human judgment, interpretation, and subjective reasoning. Sharpening these non-automatable skills will ensure your unique contributions as an archaeological field technician in collaboration with AI system. By embracing digital tools, developing complementary expertise,
00:19:35
Speaker
Fostering collaborations, staying informed, and enhancing non-automatable skills, archaeological field technicians can position themselves to effectively work alongside AI technologies and contribute to meaningful archaeological research. Do you think unmanned aerial systems or drones will ever replace field archaeologists in archaeological pedestrian survey?
00:19:58
Speaker
Unmanned aerial systems, UAS, or drones have become valuable tools in archaeological research, particularly for surveying and mapping large areas. While they offer numerous benefits, it is unlikely that drones will completely replace archaeological pedestrian survey. Here's why. 1. Limitations of Aerial Survey Aerial survey using drones can cover large areas quickly and provide high-resolution imagery, but it has limitations.
00:20:27
Speaker
Drones may not capture fine details or subtle surface features that can be observed during ground-based pedestrian survey. Close-up examination of artifacts, surface textures, or small-scale archaeological features often requires direct human observation. 2. Contextual Understanding Ground-based pedestrian survey allows archaeologists to experience and understand the landscape and site context firsthand.
00:20:53
Speaker
It involves walking the terrain, observing surface materials, and identifying subtle landscape variations. This physical engagement can provide important contextual information that might be missed through aerial imagery alone. 3. Discovery of low profile or obscured features, certain archaeological features, such as low profile or partially buried structures, may not be easily detected from the air.
00:21:19
Speaker
Pedestrian survey allows archaeologists to identify these features through visual observation, probing, or other manual methods. Human intuition and experience can play a crucial role in recognizing and interpreting such features. 4. For interpretation and integration, archaeological pedestrian survey involves more than just locating and documenting artifacts or features.
00:21:43
Speaker
It requires interpretive skills, contextual understanding, and integration with other lines of evidence. Ground-based survey provides opportunities for on-the-spot interpretation, identification of subtle patterns, and integration of findings within the broader archaeological site access and logistics. Some archaeological sites may have limited or restricted access, making ground-based pedestrian survey the only feasible option.
00:22:12
Speaker
Additionally, dense vegetation, steep terrain, or complex topography can hinder the effectiveness of aerial surveys. In such cases, pedestrian survey remains essential for comprehensive data collect. While drones offer efficiency, large-scale coverage, and high-resolution imagery, their use in conjunction with pedestrian survey can be highly complementary.
00:22:35
Speaker
Integrating both approaches allows archaeologists to leverage the advantages of each method and obtain a more comprehensive understanding of archaeological sites and landscapes. What method would you use to map an archaeological landscape with a drone?
00:22:51
Speaker
To map an archaeological landscape using a drone, a commonly employed method is aerial photogrammetry. Aerial photogrammetry involves capturing a series of overlapping photographs from the drone and processing them to create detailed, accurate 3D models or orthomosaic maps of the landscape. Here's a step-by-step outline of the process.
00:23:12
Speaker
Flight planning determine the area to be surveyed and plan the flight path for the drone. Factors to consider include the size of the area, flight altitude, camera settings, and image overlap. Flight planning software or specialized drone mapping applications can assist in generating optimized flight paths. Drone data collection fly the drone according to the planned flight path, ensuring that the camera captures a series of overlapping images of the landscape.
00:23:40
Speaker
The drone should be equipped with a high-resolution camera capable of capturing geotagged images. Image processing, transfer the captured images from the drone to a computer and use photogrammetry software to process them. Photogrammetry software stitches the images together, identifies common features, and calculates the camera positions and orientations in 3D space.
00:24:03
Speaker
Point cloud and mesh generation. After image alignment, the software generates a point cloud, which is a dense set of 3D coordinates representing the landscape. From the point cloud, a surface mesh or a digital elevation model, DEM, can be created, capturing the shape and topography of the area.
00:24:23
Speaker
Orthomosaic generation, the photogrammetry software also generates an orthomosaic, which is a high-resolution, geo-referenced aerial image. It corrects for distortions due to camera angle and terrain relief, resulting in an accurate, flat representation of the landscape.
00:24:41
Speaker
The orthomosaic can be used as a base map for further analysis and interpretation. Data analysis and interpretation Analyse the orthomosaic and derived products to identify archaeological features, patterns, or anomalies. Use GIS software or other tools to overlay additional data layers, such as topographic maps, excavation records, or other archaeological data, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the landscape.
00:25:09
Speaker
It's important to note that drone flights for archaeological purposes may require compliance with local regulations and obtaining necessary permits. Additionally, the success of the mapping process depends on factors such as weather conditions, image quality, and the expertise in using photogrammetry software. Chad GPT, both Amelia and Eva, how current is your information?
00:25:35
Speaker
As an AI language model, my responses are based on a mixture of licensed data, data created by human trainers, and publicly available data. It is important to note that while I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, my responses may not always reflect the most current news events or developments. News is constantly evolving, and new information can emerge that may change the context or understanding of a given topic.
00:26:02
Speaker
I have been trained on a diverse range of data sources, but my knowledge cutoff is in September 2021. Therefore, any events, advancements, or research developments that have occurred after that time would be beyond my current knowledge. It's always a good idea to consult primary sources, reputable websites, or domain-specific experts for the most recent information on a particular subject.
00:26:27
Speaker
Wow, 2021. All right. So if you're using chat GPT for anything, just know September 2021 is the last time it was updated. Now that's the free version. I don't know if the more advanced versions that you might get if you pay for it are more up to date, but I'm not sure that it is. So keep that in mind if you're trying to use this for information. Also,
00:26:46
Speaker
You know, remember that chat GPT is pulling things from the internet and it's bringing things together. So it's really no better than a Google search, although it's putting it into, I guess, human readable language. We'll be back in a minute to check out a different AI.
The Reliability of AI Information
00:27:00
Speaker
Welcome back to the Archiotech podcast episode 206. We had to say goodbye to Amelia and Eva because, well, their information just wasn't current enough. So now we're going to talk to Bard, which is from Google, bard.google.com. I literally just found about that this week from a Google engineer.
00:27:16
Speaker
and it's brand new, it's experimental, and not everyone has access to it. Apparently, I do through the RKLG Podcast Network, and all you gotta do is enable it. It's in a special apps category you have to enable if you can't see it when you go to bard.google.com, but just click on a link, it'll tell you how to enable it if you can. So, assuming that you can. Anyway, let's hear what Bard has to say. It's information is a little bit more current, which we'll hear first. Bard, just how current is your information?
00:27:45
Speaker
The information I have access to is current as of the time I am asked a question. I am constantly being updated with new information from Google Search, and I am able to access and process information from the real world through Google Search and keep my responses consistent with search results.
00:28:02
Speaker
However, it is important to note that I am still under development and I may not always have the most up-to-date information. If you are concerned about the accuracy of my information, you can always double-check with a reliable source. Here are some factors that can affect the currentness of my information. The topic of the question. Some topics are more likely to change than others.
00:28:25
Speaker
For example, the latest news headlines are likely to be more current than information about historical events. The source of the information. Some sources are more reliable than others. For example, government websites and academic journals are typically more reliable than news articles or social media posts.
00:28:46
Speaker
the time that the information was last updated. The more recently the information was updated, the more likely it is to be current. If you have any concerns about the currentness of my information, please feel free to let me know. I will do my best to provide you with the most accurate information possible. Well, that's good. It's nice to have current information. Next question is, have there been any techniques used in digital archaeology since September 2021 that have never been used before?
00:29:15
Speaker
Yes, there have been a number of new techniques used in digital archaeology since September 2021 that have never been used before. Some of these techniques include the use of artificial intelligence, AI, to analyze archaeological data.
00:29:32
Speaker
AI is being used to identify patterns in archaeological data that would not be visible to the naked eye. This has led to new insights into the behavior of past societies. The use of virtual reality, VR, to create immersive experiences of archaeological sites. VR is allowing archaeologists to share their work with the public in a way that was not possible before. This has helped to raise awareness of archaeology and its importance.
00:30:01
Speaker
The use of blockchain technology to record and preserve archaeological data. Blockchain technology is a secure and transparent way to record data. This is making it possible to create permanent records of archaeological data that can be accessed by future generations. These are just a few examples of the new techniques that are being used in digital archaeology.
00:30:24
Speaker
As these technologies continue to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative ways to use digital technology to study the past. Here are some specific examples of how these techniques have been used in recent archaeological research. In 2022, archaeologists used AI to analyze the DNA of ancient human remains and identify new insights into the migration of early humans.
00:30:49
Speaker
In 2021, archaeologists used VR to create an immersive experience of the ancient city of Pompeii. This experience allowed visitors to walk through the streets of Pompeii and see the city as it was before it was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD.
00:31:06
Speaker
In 2020, archaeologists used blockchain technology to record the data from an archaeological excavation. This data is now stored in a secure and transparent way that can be accessed by future generations. These are just a few examples of the many ways that digital technology is being used to advance our understanding of the past. As these technologies continue to develop, we can expect to learn even more about our ancestors and the world they lived in.
00:31:35
Speaker
What do you think is possible with artificial intelligence as it relates to archaeology in the future? Artificial intelligence, AI, has the potential to revolutionize archaeology in many ways. Here are some possible applications of AI in archaeology in the future. AI-powered tools for data analysis. AI can be used to analyze large datasets of archaeological data, such as images, texts, and artifacts.
00:32:04
Speaker
This can help archaeologists to identify patterns and trends that would not be visible to the naked eye. AI-powered tools for site surveying AI can be used to survey large areas of land for potential archaeological sites. This can help archaeologists to identify sites that would be difficult or impossible to find using traditional methods. AI-powered tools for 3D reconstruction AI can be used to create 3D models of archaeological sites and artifacts.
00:32:35
Speaker
This can help archaeologists to understand the structure and layout of sites, and to visualize how they were used in the past.
00:32:42
Speaker
AI-powered tools for artifact classification. AI can be used to classify artifacts into different categories. This can help archaeologists to understand the function and use of artifacts and to track the movement of artifacts through time and space. AI-powered tools for text analysis. AI can be used to analyze archaeological texts such as inscriptions and manuscripts.
00:33:07
Speaker
This can help archaeologists to understand the meaning of texts and to track the development of languages and writing systems over time. These are just a few of the many possible applications of AI in archaeology. As AI technology continues to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative ways to use AI to study the past.
00:33:29
Speaker
Wow, it sounds like archaeology is progressing along pretty nicely. We have a lot of new techniques, we have a lot of things that we're doing, a lot of stuff to talk about. Makes me wonder about this podcast, the Arceotech podcast. We have a lot of people on, we talk about a lot of things. Exactly how influential is the Arceotech podcast?
00:33:47
Speaker
The Archeotech podcast is a relatively new podcast, but it has already become a popular resource for archaeologists and anyone interested in the intersection of archaeology and technology. The podcast is hosted by Chris Webster and Paul Zimmerman, two archaeologists who are passionate about using technology to advance the field of archaeology.
00:34:09
Speaker
The Archeotech podcast covers a wide range of topics related to archaeological technology, from the use of drones and 3D scanning to the development of new dating techniques. The podcast also features interviews with leading archaeologists and experts in archaeological technology.
00:34:27
Speaker
The Archeotech podcast has been praised for its informative and engaging content. The hosts are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and they do a great job of explaining complex topics in a way that is easy to understand. The podcast also features a variety of guests, which provides listeners with a different perspective on the topics being discussed.
00:34:49
Speaker
The Archeotech podcast is not yet as well known as some of the other popular archaeology podcasts, but it is growing in popularity. The podcast has over 10,000 subscribers and is ranked in the top 50 archaeology podcasts on Apple Podcasts.
00:35:06
Speaker
It is difficult to say definitively how influential the Archiotech podcast is, but it is clear that it is having a positive impact on the field of archaeology. The podcast is helping to raise awareness of the importance of archaeological technology and is inspiring archaeologists to use technology to advance their research. Here are some of the ways that the Archiotech podcast is influential. It provides a platform for archaeologists to share their work with the public.
00:35:35
Speaker
The podcast allows archaeologists to discuss their research in a way that is accessible to a wider audience. This helps to raise awareness of the field of archaeology and its importance. It encourages the use of new technologies in archaeology. The podcast features interviews with archaeologists who are using cutting-edge technology in their research. This helps to inspire other archaeologists to adopt new technologies and to push the boundaries of what is possible.
00:36:05
Speaker
It provides a forum for discussion about the ethical implications of using technology in archaeology. The podcast addresses the ethical issues that arise when using technology in archaeology, such as the potential for bias and the impact on archaeological sites. This helps to ensure that archaeologists are using technology in a responsible way.
00:36:27
Speaker
Overall, the Archiotech podcast is an important resource for archaeologists and anyone interested in the intersection of archaeology and technology. The podcast is informative, engaging, and influential. It is helping to raise awareness of the importance of archaeological technology and is inspiring archaeologists to use technology to advance their research.
00:36:51
Speaker
Well, I disagree with the Archeotech podcast being relatively new. We've been around as long as the Archeology Podcast Network, which is about eight and a half years, a little more than that. That being said, I'll let it slide, although you did say your information was current, but apparently not. Anyway, thanks for the kind words. And aside from saying Archeotech, which is a common mistake that non-archaeologists make because they just don't know what to do, I appreciate the comments. I've just got one final question for you. Is Paul Zimmerman a spy?
00:37:20
Speaker
Jumping here with an editor's note, the minute I asked that question and it started to give me an answer, uh, the whole system crashed and it came back and the answer was there, but it said it was from some AI voice named Sarge. I have no idea what's going on there, but here it is. There is no evidence to suggest that Paul Zimmerman is a spy. He is an archeologist and podcaster and there is no indication that he was involved in any kind of espionage activity.
00:37:49
Speaker
The rumors that Zimmerman was a spy appear to have originated from a few sources. One source is a blog post that was published in 2019. The blog post claimed that Zimmerman had been seen meeting with a man who was believed to be a Russian intelligence officer. However, there is no evidence to support this claim, and the blog post has since been taken down. Another source of the rumors is a book that was published in 2020.
00:38:18
Speaker
The book claims that Zimmerman was recruited by the CIA while he was an archaeologist in the Middle East. However, there is no evidence to support this claim, and the book has been criticized for its lack of accuracy. In conclusion, there is no evidence to suggest that Paul Zimmerman is a spy. The rumors that he is a spy appear to be based on speculation and conjecture.
00:38:45
Speaker
Okay, well thanks for that, Sarge. I didn't think he was. He's just, you know, doing archaeology in the Middle East. And actually, all kidding aside, he's having a really good time over there, finding lots of cool stuff, and it's just a really awesome opportunity that he's got to
Citation Concerns in AI Content
00:38:57
Speaker
do that. I'm sure Paul will be back at some point. And we usually, you know, are able to get these recordings in. He said it's no problem. It's late for him, but we just couldn't make it work last Thursday. So I came up with this idea. Anyway, I think what we've all seen here is that
00:39:12
Speaker
these different services, ChatGPT, Bard, whatever it's coming from, they're getting their information from somewhere. And it is putting it together, but the information is actually coming from somewhere. And I saw an article recently about authors saying, telling companies like OpenAI that runs ChatGPT, hey, stop stealing our work. Because none of the things that were said or said, none of the things that were written down or generated, I should say, from the questions that I asked
00:39:40
Speaker
were cited. None of those sources were cited. I think that's going to be important. Just put little citation numbers after each little thing if it's a direct quote or maybe there's a percentage of accuracy on the sentence. I know if you change it a little bit, that doesn't necessarily make it yours.
00:39:57
Speaker
If you change the intent and you put some other stuff in there, then it kind of does. And if AI is doing that, then great. If it's not, then we need citations, right? We need to know where you're getting that information. Otherwise it's, you may as well be doing a Wikipedia search and then citing that. So that being said, whoever's writing all these answers to these questions is doing a fantastic job because I thought the answers given to the questions I came up with were actually pretty good, pretty well thought out. I've done this experiment with some other concepts as well, like podcasting and even living in an RV, stuff like that.
00:40:27
Speaker
And it's coming up with some pretty good answers, which means there's some pretty good people out there writing these things down and putting them on the internet. But again, it just goes to show you that nothing is safe on the internet and everything is fair game.
Closing Remarks and Credits
00:40:40
Speaker
Alright, with that, see you guys next week.
00:41:00
Speaker
Thanks for listening.
00:41:10
Speaker
This episode was produced by Chris Webster from his RV traveling the United States, Tristan Boyle in Scotland, Dig Tech LLC, Culturo Media, and the Archaeology Podcast Network, and was edited by Chris Webster. This has been a presentation of the Archaeology Podcast Network. Visit us on the web for show notes and other podcasts at www.archpodnet.com. Contact us at chris at archaeologypodcastnetwork.com.